25,000 streets. 20,000 landmarks. Years of commitment. The Knowledge is a test of endurance, focus, and determination. And it’s this same mindset that drives everything we do at Hybrid Solutions. Check out part two of our deep dive into The Knowledge and the cabbies that have mastered it.
First fare? Always free
During our time interviewing cab drivers, we learned a lot about their journeys. Like the long hours they’ve put in, the learning process, and the pride that comes with passing The Knowledge test.
But they’re only human. One cabbie told us that the first thing he did after passing (which took him nearly three years) was give a young American tourist a free cab fare. All because it was his first ride as an official driver and felt nervous.
A foundation
So how do they do it? Another cabbie we interviewed told us he’d drive around London on his bike four or five hours a day trying to memorise streets and landmarks. And of course there’s the oral test known as ‘the call over’. This was the most crucial part where you had to ‘regurgitate streets over and over’ and do this day after day until it sticks.
What makes cabbies and Hybrid so similar?
The Knowledge takes discipline. And it’s this discipline that keeps London’s tunnels and infrastructure moving. From the underground systems that power the city to the new HQ above ground, it shows just how far we’ve come.
Like with most cabbie drivers, they have dedication and pride in what they do. Qualities that we see in the people behind Hybrid.
Want to learn more about The Knowledge? Watch the full documentary here